Dental Delight: 4 Health Benefits of Smiling

Did you know that people with dental issues are more likely to report feelings of unworthiness, depression, and lack of social engagement? Flaws in your teeth can leave you feeling so self-conscious that it impacts your overall well-being. Fortunately, your dentist can improve your health by restoring your grin with cosmetic dentistry. If you’re interested to know more, keep reading to learn about 4 benefits of smiling!

Benefit #1: Alleviate Stress

November is here, which means the holiday season is kicking off soon. If you’re like many others, you’ll soon be knee-deep in meal preparations, gift purchases, and plans to travel or host guests. All the extra pressure is enough to leave anyone feeling extra anxious.

Thankfully, you can improve your mood by simply lifting the corner of your lips. The physical act of smiling uses fewer muscles than frowning, so is easier on your body. Not only that, but it releases chemicals in your brain that will slow your heart rate, lower your blood pressure, and ease your muscles. What a relief!

Benefit #2: Support Your Immune System

You’re more likely to catch a cold or the flu during these colder months as temperatures drop. If you have a cough that you can’t shake or have a persistent stomach bug, it may feel counterintuitive to put a smile on your face. Doing so, however, emits specific neurotransmitters that relax your systems and boost your immunity. It’s an easy way to build up your defenses against illness this time of year.

Benefit #3: Reduce Blood Pressure

Often smiling comes with a noisy laugh which has an incredibly positive effect on your body. When you burst into giggles or guffaw out loud, you experience a sudden increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Your quick inhale brings more oxygen-rich air into your lungs which briefly stimulates your lungs, heart, and muscles. It’s followed by a sudden cool-down which leads to a decrease in blood pressure and a sense of calm.   

Benefit #4: Pain Relief

Smiling releases natural endorphins like serotonin and dopamine. That’s good news if you’re in pain because these feel-good chemicals are known to counteract it. The next time you have a headache or other lingering discomfort, feel free to grin and bear it! You’ll actually be doing yourself a favor.  

Don’t let dental problems interfere with your sense of self-confidence. Your dentist can address imperfections in your teeth so that you have something to smile about!

About the Author

Dr. George T. Philip earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the Texas Christian University in 1998, then earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree in 2003 from the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine. He provides a full range of dental services to patients of all ages, including cosmetic dentistry. If you’re worried about minor aesthetic imperfections in your teeth, he can help. You’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (972) 285-6144.